This study aims to create and validate a model to identify the barriers to achieving sustainability in the supply chain of perishable items from the perspective of Bangladesh. The barriers were identified through a systematic review of the literature and input from experts. Then, the Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method was applied to prioritize the key barriers, followed by Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) to establish the relationships among those barriers. We have identified 9 key barriers to achieving sustainability in the supply chain of perishable items in this study. This analysis of data is based on the fruits business of a renowned company, so the opinions can be biased in some cases. A large amount of small business unit data was excluded. Consequently, this can be implemented on a large-scale business group rather than a small-scale business of perishable items. Decision-makers will get the advantage of this model as well as researchers and practitioners, to understand the probable barriers to achieving sustainability and adoption of Industry 4.0 in the business of perishable items. The prioritization of barriers will also assist in allocating available resources properly. This research is an original contribution of key barriers to the sustainable supply chain in the Bangladeshi business of perishable items using SWARA and the combined ISM-MICMAC approach.